Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis has issued a warning to Deliveroo users after reports that takeaway food was being offered on finance.
Users were left shocked after they reported noticing a new option at the checkout on the food delivery app for those who may not be able to actually afford it. When heading over to payment options, users are now faced with the choice of whether they want to pay for the food via Klarna.
Klarna is a finance service that doesn't charge interest or implement late fees for delayed payments. The move brought in a wave of criticism, with many suggesting that the app is encouraging shoppers to build up debt during a time of extreme financial uncertainty.
Posting on Twitter, Mr Lewis slammed the app, saying: "Dear @Deliveroo do you really need pump debt as a way to pay for takeaways? Buy Now Pay Later may seem innocuous but it is 1) Not yet regulated 2) Debt, even if done right its 0%.
"Borrowing should only be if NEEDED, for planned one off budgeted purchase, not a cheeky nandos."
Despite its many alluring options compared to other financial services, it's important to note that Klarna has the ability to pass arrears on to debt collectors, increasing financial stress on users that are unable to make the payments. Deliveroo customers will now see Klarna as an additional payment option when they go to pay for their takeaway and will be presented with the three following options:
- Pay Now, to pay the full amount immediately;
- Pay in 30, to pay the full amount within 30 days
- Pay in 3, to pay in three equal instalments over 60 days, with a minimum spend of £30
Consumer rights expert and Mirror columnist Martyn James said: "It's extraordinarily irresponsible to be encouraging people to take out credit for takeaways.
"Failure to repay a credit deal can have a huge impact on your finances if the debt collectors are summoned - and people should not be encouraged to borrow for essentials like food that can be obtained much cheaper by visiting a shop."
A Klarna spokesperson said: "People have been paying for food deliveries with credit cards and overdrafts for decades but they've been stung by rip-off fees and extortionate interest so it’s time consumers had the choice of a healthier alternative where they only ever pay the original cost of the purchase.”
A Deliveroo spokesperson said: “Deliveroo offers choice to our customers, from neighbourhood eateries and your weekday lunch to a Saturday night celebration. Millions of people are already choosing Klarna and we’re giving customers more choice and more flexibility with a safe, secure way to pay online.”
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